17 best lunchboxes, meal prep containers to buy in 2024
Whether you’re looking for a bento box, thermos or insulated food bag, we’ve rounded up the best lunch boxes and containers for school, work and more.
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The daily dilemma of deciding what to eat for breakfast and lunch can make or break your day. While it’s easy to opt for expensive (and often unhealthy) takeaway, packing homemade food is really the best way to go for your health, wallet and the environment.
But deciding on the right containers and bags to pack your meal in so that it remains fresh and edible throughout the day is just as important as choosing what food to take, which is why it’s important you invest in the right lunch box.
According to founders of professional organisational company TIDEE, Emma Rosham and Michelle Rubin, there are a couple of options that trump all others.
“Stainless steel lunch boxes are a great, safe and durable option,” they told news.com.au.
When it comes to plastic, “look for food containers which are BPA-free, with multiple compartments for storing different foods and can be easily cleaned.”
Here, we’ve rounded up the best lunch boxes, easy-to-open and dishwasher-safe containers, insulated bags and sturdy thermoses for kids and adults of any age.
BEST LUNCH BOXES OVERALL
Sistema To Go Rectangular Bento Box 1.76L, $21 at Spotlight
Sistema To Go Rectangular Bento Box 1.76L
What You Need To Know
There’s no need for multiple containers to store your food during the day — this spacious Sistema bento box will keep all your food fresh and separate until ready to eat. Lift the secure lid off and inside you’ll find various compartments including a 150ml pot with a seal-tight screw-top lid, perfect for yoghurt, sauces, spices and spreads. The top compartments can easily be removed if you need more room.
It’s available in a variety of sizes – all designed with different compartments – to suit everyone’s unique needs but this specific 1.76 litre one has to be our (and thousands of others) favourite. Also, did we point out the price? A bargain, if you ask us.
"I love this lunchbox," commented one Spotlight customer. "There is space for two different types of sandwich, and a bit of salad. A pot for salsa dressing or a few nuts or seeds. Two small compartments for seasoning or anything else you need for a tasty lunch. I like the fact it is all separated. The lid fits nice and snuggly and stops everything from moving around. A great lunch box to take to work or out for a picnic."
Lunch Box
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, Shopping Writer
If you're after a lunch box that's not only durable and sturdy but cute, you can't look past this one from kikki.K!
Throughout my life, I don't think I have ever used a silicone lunchbox. Why? I'm honestly not sure - I've always used plastic or stainless steel, however I've officially converted and truly get the hype around silicone lunchboxes. This lunch box from kikki.K in particular comes in a range of cute colours and the lilac is my favourite. Measuring 17.5L x 12W x 5.5H centimetres, this lunchbox is leak-proof and the perfect size for any on-the go lunches - I've brought a salad, sandwich, wrap, rice and noodles in this and have not experienced any leakage which is a huge plus in my book.
Made from 100 per cent food-grade silicone, the lunch box is BPA-free, oven safe, microwave safe and fridge and freezer safe, plus it's highly temperature resistant (up to 230 degrees Celsius) which is even greater because I prefer my food to be steaming hot, and with this lunch box, I can pick it up without getting burnt and the container doesn't get all weird and warped after.
Not to mention, it's super easy to clean as it's dishwasher safe and I don't have to worry about it cracking or breaking because it's highly durable.
Divided Lunch Box, $29.95 at Tupperware
What You Need To Know
Tupperware has long created fabulous top quality storage containers that are always up for the job of keeping food fresh and organised. And now, to help cut down on food packaging and boost healthy eating habits, they've brought out a must-have bento style lunch box.
This sleek and stylish container offers three compartments so you can have a little separation in your lunch. It has a one-litre capacity so plenty of space for your salad, pasta, chopped fruit or veggies - yet measuring a slim 15.7cm x 4.7 cm x 16.8cm, it will slip easily into your tote or work bag. The lid offers a firm closure with a large tab for easy opening, plus it's safe to pop in the dishwasher at the end of the day. A great option when you want to save on space, but not on your healthy and varied home-packed lunch. Available in two appealing colours, dolphin blue and orange taffy.
Takeout Lunch Box, $10 (down from $19.99) at kikki.K
What You Need To Know
Like anything you find at kikki K, this chic looking lunchbox is not only practical but undeniably stylish. Made of healthy bamboo fibre, it provides an ample one-litre capacity so you can prep all the food and snacks you need and eat on the go. With a silicone seal and a four-way-band strap, the lid can be firmly secured to avoid all those annoying leaks and messy spills. Plus, it comes with a matching knife and fork, so you're always prepared. It has a sleek and highly attractive appearance, in a choice of blue, black or natural and measures 65cm x 185cm x 115cm. It's manageable size fits neatly into your tote or work bag - or even better, kikki K's handy lunch bag, available in six stunning tones.
BEST STAINLESS STEEL BENTO BOX
Ever Eco Stainless Steel 2 Compartment Bento Box, $44.95 (down from $49.95) at Healthy Life
Ever Eco Stainless Steel 2 Compartment Bento Box 1400ml
What You Need To Know
You can’t go wrong with a sturdy stainless steel bento box like this one by Ever Eco. It’s made from premium 18/8 food grade stainless steel and features a sleek design with clips on the side. It has a removable divider that you can move to adjust the size of both compartments - super ideal for those that love to bring a big lunch with snacks on the side.
Measuring 21cm x 16cm x 6cm, it has a capacity of 1400ml and is dishwasher safe. It’s the perfect lunch box for taking to work or as a BYO container for takeaway food.
However, it is not microwave-safe and not suitable for liquids.
BEST TIERED STAINLESS STEEL BENTO BOX
Pelli Bags Double Up Double Layered Steel Lunch Box, $79.95 at THE ICONIC
Pelli Bags Double Up Double Layered Steel Lunch Box
What You Need To Know
This sturdy, leakproof lunch box is the perfect plastic-free option. It’s made from the highest quality stainless steel, it’s incredibly lightweight and its simplistic shape means it can be easily stacked in any lunch bag you already own.
It features two tiers — the thinner top layer is perfect for smaller snacks and the thicker bottom layer can be used to store bulkier food items like sandwiches, salads and pasta. It also comes with a seven-piece bamboo cutlery set (again, sustainability in mind) that includes a fork, spoon, sliver, reusable straw, set of chopsticks, straw cleaner and a rollaway canvas pouch.
You’ll also be glad to know that every purchase cleans up 26m2 of the ocean so you can feel good every time you use your environmentally-friendly container.
BEST TIERED PLASTIC BENTO BOX
Boutique Baby Designs Twin 2 Tiered and 3 Tiered Bento Boxes, $59.99 at Myer
Boutique Baby Design Twin 3 Tiered and 2 Tiered Bento Boxes
What You Need To Know
These environmentally-friendly bento boxes are perfect for those who love having a little variety for lunch. It comes with two options, one with three stacked compartments that are perfect for holding snacks, salads, cut up fruits, pasta - you name it. The other with two sizeable compartments to fit larger size serves.
Conveniently, it also comes with a fork and spoon that can also be used as chopsticks thanks to their double-ended design and both boxes have secure snap lids, one clear, one solid. Made from wheat straw plastic, these bento boxes are microwave and dishwasher safe, and BPA free.
The handy twin pack gives you a choice when it comes to the size and contents of your lunch - or gives another member in your household the opportunity to prep and pack their lunch. Both are the perfect size for taking to work and are easy to wash and pack away.
“Amazing! Very solid plastic, everything feels secure when it’s clipped in, and good size to the compartments” one five-star reviewer wrote.
“This is a great little lunchbox, has plenty of room and the fact that its stackable makes it easier to take to work!” another reviewer wrote.
BEST BENTO BOX FOR KIDS
Jeopace Bento Box For Kids, $20.90 at Amazon Australia
Jeopace Bento Box For Kids
What You Need To Know
Bento boxes are a great choice for kids because they feature separate compartments that allow you to pack a variety of foods. This one comes with four compartments — the largest is perfect for a sandwich or other main meal, two mid-sized compartments for everything from fruit to vegetable sticks and nibbles, and a small round compartment located in the middle for dips and sauces.
Close the box up and nothing leaks between sections or the box itself. In fact, it’s been labelled “toddler-safe” by various users who have admitted it has remained intact after being thrown, dropped and even chewed on. The wheat fibre material it’s constructed from is BPA-free and stain-resistant and given you clean it after every use, it won’t get mouldy.
The box also comes with a petite plastic fork and (child-safe) knife so you don’t have to stress about your kids handling their food with their hands. It comes in larger sizes and a variety of colours so really, your kids aren’t the only ones who can enjoy the benefits of this handy bento box.
One of the 2,100 five-star reviewers on Amazon said: “I really like this for kids lunches! I always like to pack a variety of foods to hit all of the food groups. It’s easy to pack a snack style lunch or a ‘main course’ style with sides. I’ve packed sauces and dips in this lunch box and it does not leak. My kids are 7 and have no problems opening and closing these containers. They’re heavy duty and the spoon and fork that come with are good quality.”
Another person added: “This is microwave, refrigerator and dishwasher safe. I’ve tried all three and it works a treat. Looks small – packs lots of food! I added veggies, coleslaw, pickles and rice and it was more than enough for lunch.”
BEST THERMOS
Thermos Stainless King Vacuum Insulated Food Jar 470ml, $54.99 at Harris Scarfe
Thermos Stainless King Vacuum Insulated Food Jar 470ml
What You Need To Know
With a name like Thermos, it’s hard to imagine anything but superior thermos quality. Whether you’re taking last night’s minestrone, creamy yoghurt or piping hot coffee, this select takes the top spot in durability, leakproof capability, design and temperature retention. The patented double-wall stainless steel vacuum insulation keeps food and liquid hot for nine hours and cold for 14.
It comes with a full-size folding stainless steel spoon that neatly sits into the lid, eliminating the need to pack separate utensils, and the lid even doubles as a convenient built-in serving bowl. The brand also carries food-specific thermoses but we think this 470ml jar is the perfect all-rounder for travelling near and far.
A satisfied user commented “It keeps food hot for very long times! it is sturdy, yet good looking!!! Highly recommended. Wide mouth and spoon are a plus!”
BEST KIDS THERMOS
Thermos FUNtainer Stainless Steel Food Jar 290ml, $31.95 at Myer
Thermos FUNtainer Stainless Steel Food Jar 290ml
What You Need to Know
Much like the adult version above, this mini-sized Thermos made from premium food grade stainless steel has a double-walled construction to keep food and liquids hot for up to five hours and chilled for up to seven hours. This means you don’t have to worry about your little one not having access to a microwave or refrigerator at school. It’s been designed with a wide-set mouth that’s easy to fill, eat from and clean. You and your kids can choose from a variety of fun prints like an astronaut and his rocket, unicorns and hearts, dinosaurs and even a Disney collection.
"Keeps food warm for kindy and is easy to clean," wrote one reviewer on the Myer website. "Patterns on the thermos haven’t deteriorated while washing which is a plus."
Another happy customer made the comment, "Love these for primary aged kids. This brand is good quality."
BEST GLASS FOOD CONTAINER
Pyrex Food Container Set, $42.33 at Amazon
Pyrex Food Container Set
What You Need To Know
When it comes to glass containers, it’s pretty hard to look past the beloved brand Pyrex. This set of three containers is especially good for those who prefer not to use plastic or stainless steel. Yes, glass is susceptible to damage, however, the high-tempered glass these Pyrex ones are made of isn’t exactly fragile. Sure, a few chips here and there may occur if you’re rough with them but they won’t break so easily, even after being thrown around in your handbag. Being glass, it won’t pick up smells, flavours or colours from food and the entire container can be placed in the microwave for reheating and also into the dishwasher. When storing, we love nesting them inside of each other to cut down on space.
"These are my absolute favorite storage dishes," wrote one Amazon reviewer. "My husband is notorious for not rinsing out his leftovers and then bringing the dish to me a week later. These dishes clean very nicely and (obviously) don’t retain smell."
Another said, "I love this little set, it's perfect for my lunchbox..."
BEST FOOD CONTAINER FOR SNACKS
Frank Green Ceramic Food Container 475ml, $45.95 at Frank Green
What You Need To Know
When it comes to packing snacks, this container from Frank Green is the perfect size. Constructed from food-grade stainless steel, it’s designed with triple-wall vacuum insulation to retain temperature, a ceramic lining to lock in flavour and an airtight lid that’ll stop any leaks from occurring. You could stash yoghurt or dip in it, a handful of nuts, olives, cheese cubes or crackers, or even pasta salad or mash potato. Really, the options are endless. It comes in three dreamy colourways – a classic black, refreshing green and elegant pastel pink – so the only dilemma is choosing which one to buy.
E-commerce Content Manager at news.com.au, Edwina Carr Barraclough loves the Frank Green Ceramic Food Container as a spill-proof option for keeping snacks cool: “There’s nothing worse than packing some cut up fruit in the morning and eating it warm later in the day. This genius container needs just a quick few minutes in the freezer to keep snacks cold for hours. It’s also a decent enough size to pop a serve of warm soup in, too, and it’s completely spill-proof”.
Snack Box
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, Shopping Writer
As someone who is constantly snackish, this kikki.K snack box has been perfect for carrying a variety of snacks in one container.
I've been loving this snack box for its versatility - the three separate compartments are decently sized and the bigger section is great for fitting in a light and smaller lunch, while the other two are great for small snacks like a nut mix and cut up fruit. Similar to the lunch box, it's also leak-proof, measures 17.5L x 12W x 5.5H centimetres and made from 100 per cent food-grade silicone.
It's BPA-free, oven safe, microwave safe and fridge and freezer safe, highly temperature resistant (up to 230 degrees Celsius) and easy to clean as it's dishwasher safe. It's also way more durable and sturdy than a plastic container - so you don't need to worry about the container popping open or breaking in your bag.
BEST FOOD CONTAINERS FOR MEAL PREPPING
Igluu 3 Compartment Meal Prep Containers 10 Pack, $23.95 (down from $25.95) at Amazon Australia
Igluu 3 Compartment Meal Prep Containers 10 Pack
What You Need To Know
Meal prepping can be challenging, especially for beginners. But that’s why it’s important to have the right tools — and one of the best places to start is with the right meal prep storage containers. This set of 10 is made from highly durable food-safe plastic that is safe to use in the microwave, freezer and dishwasher. The airtight lids seal securely to keep food fresh for longer (read: from Sunday till Friday) and won’t leak everywhere when you take your healthy meals to work. Each container features three perfectly portioned compartments to help you stick to your diet plan. But if you’re looking for fewer or more compartments, Igluu also carries various shapes and sizes on Amazon to suit your preferences.
One person summed it up, saying: “The container is made from such high-quality plastic and oftentimes with containers I find the lids quite floppy, but not this! The lids click in so nicely too and they stack beautifully! Plus they pop in the freezer, microwave and dishwasher! BEST meal prep boxes and has definitely changed my meal prepping game and made me a lot more excited!”
BEST REUSABLE SANDWICH BAGS
Lerine 10 Pack Reusable Storage Bags, $38.77 at Amazon Australia
Lerine 10 Pack Reusable Storage Bags
What You Need To Know
Ditch the single-use zip lock bags for this set of life-changing reusable silicone plastic bags. Although the price tag may seem a bit pricey for a plastic bag, keep in mind that you’re actually paying for a set of six, which can be reused over and over again so you actually end up saving a lot of money in the long-term. They can also be used beyond just packing lunches — in fact, the largest-sized bag in the set is perfect for storing food in the pantry, refrigerator or freezer. The seal also gets a big tick of approval from us as it’s tight enough to keep liquids and air out (or in). In fact, you may even find them more leak-proof than your trusty airtight containers. The only minor downside is that they’re not dishwasher safe so you will need to hand wash them with cool water and then leave them out to air dry. However, this hasn’t seemed to bother reviewers plus, it’s a very small hiccup for such a revolutionary product you’ll fall in love with using.
With a 4.5 out of five-star average rating on Amazon, hundreds of reviewers have expressed their joy in using these reusable bags.
“I have been wanting reusable silicone bags for quite a while now," wrote one Amazon shopper. "The large bags in this package are perfect for freezing my baking. I have also been using the snack bags regularly."
Another reviewer commented, "These are great for all purpose use. They work well in the freezer and are very durable. We turn them inside out when they need to be washed (which we do for the larger ones) and fit well in the dishwasher (top rack) for the smaller ones. Very happy with the purchase and how well they work."
BEST NEOPRENE LUNCH BAG
TYB Bag Insulated Lunch bag, $15.99 at Amazon Australia
TYB Insulated Lunch Bag
What You Need To Know
If you’ve ever owned a neoprene tote bag, you’d understand why this material is so popular. For starters, it’s waterproof and weather-resistant, extremely durable, flexible and stretchy to fit in extra items, has an antibacterial property and is lightweight. This brightly patterned insulated bag is everything you need to take your meal on the go — especially if you don’t have access to a refrigerator. It keeps food warm or cold for up to four hours, depending on the weather conditions, and can fit everything from a few snacks to a larger lunch and even stacked containers. And when not in use, simply flatten it down for effortless storage. Available in a range of fun patterns, and as one Amazon shopper noted, "Easy to clean being neoprene."
A five-star reviewer commented, “Very happy with this product. I ordered two for my kid" while another said, "Speedy delivery and product as described. The kids love their new lunch bags."
BEST LUNCH BOWL FOR SALADS
Bentgo Salad Lunch Container, $36.50 at Amazon Australia
Bentgo Salad Lunch Container
What You Need To Know
The problem with packing salads is that by the time you get around to eating it for lunch, it’s not in the freshest state and there’s a good chance your dressing has spilled everywhere. All you’re left with is an unsatisfying lunch. However, that’s where this savvy lunch box comes in handy. It features a spacious 1.5 litre salad bowl that fits up to four cups of healthy fruits and vegetables plus, a removable four-compartment tray for toppings of your choice, a leakproof container for salad dressings and a reusable fork. Now that’s one way to ensure you get your daily dose of vegetables, plus some.
One of the 3,900 five-star reviewers said “I’ve been using this every day for two weeks now and it’s amazing! It has never leaked and all my salad toppings are kept perfectly separated until I put my salad together. The crunchy bits stay crunchy! Nothing ever gets soggy! I feel like the size is great. I have a nice, hearty salad without overdoing it. You can just toss it in the top rack of the dishwasher to clean.”
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A LUNCH BOX
The best lunch box for you will depend on your unique needs. Factors to consider when purchasing the right one for you include the following:
Shape and size: Do you want a sturdy lunch box that can handle being thrown around in your bag or will a soft lunch bag suffice? Do you prefer a box you can keep your whole meal in or do you like to keep foods separately? What size would be suitable for you and your eating habits?
Temperature regulation: Keeping your food at the right temperature is vital. Will you be able to store your food in a refrigerator or warm it up in the microwave? If not, your lunch box will have to do most of the temperature-regulation work. An insulated lunch box that comes with a heat or ice pack can definitely come in handy.
Maintenance: There’s a good chance your lunch box will take a beating throughout the day, making food spills and container explosions inevitable. So, ensure you consider how easy your lunch box or food container will be to clean. Is it dishwasher or washing machine safe? Moreover, do you need your lunch box to have a leakproof seal? Many softshell containers can only be wiped down, whereas hard shell containers can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the best lunch box that suits your needs and budget, we asked founders of professional organisational company TIDEE, Emma Rosham and Michelle Rubin, for their expert advice and recommendations on what to look for when buying a lunch box.In addition, our shopping team added their own first-hand reviews, read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best lunch box from premium to budget to help you find the right one.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR LUNCH BOX?
Given you take proper care of your lunch box (by washing it regularly and not letting it accumulate mould and bacteria), it should last a minimum of one year. You can expect this to be a bit longer if you paid good money for a high-quality one.
Rosham and Rubin recommend replacing your lunch box and food containers when “they’re broken or discoloured.”
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